Q: How can I get my foot in the door of a law library with no formal coursework or experience in such a library?

Q: I have spent 14 years at home with my kids who are now going off to college. I would like to find a full-time librarian job, but the MLS I earned in the 1980’s seems really out-of-date in today’s job market. Also, having been a special librarian, I am now drawn to law libraries. How can I get my foot in the door of a law library with no formal coursework or experience in such a library? I have considered getting a Paralegal degree to compliment my MLS, do you think this would be an advantage? Thanks!

TA: First things first, you need to do something to get your MLS up to date. I would suggest you look into library science programs (online or in person) that offer the Certificate of Advanced Study. Something like that will give you the opportunity to explore current topics and technologies in the profession today. You may also have an internship or field experience requirement as part of the certificate program, which will allow you to step into a place of employment and gain some valuable experience while building professional contacts and a network of colleagues. If you would like to specialize in law libraries, you could consider a field experience or internship at a law library to give it a try. If it remains of interest, you may want to consider pursuing the paralegal degree.